US20180236280A1 - Fire Collar - Google Patents

Abstract

There is provided a fire collar comprising a casing defining a service conduit passage therethrough, the casing having an activation side and an installation side, wherein the casing defines an activation side located activation chamber. The fire collar has an opposing pair of shutters located within the activation chamber defining operative leading edges. In use, the shutters are configurable in a non-activated configuration wherein the leading edges are spaced apart so as to make allowance for the service conduit therebetween and when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side in use, the shutters transition to an activated configuration wherein the respective leading edges of the shutters close in the passage.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to building apparatus and in particular to a fire collar for fire containment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Passive fire protection is the concept of using the building elements to contain a fire to prevent the rapid spread of the fire, to allow for evacuation of occupants and to provide safer conditions for fire fighting.
• Buildings are designed to have separate “fire compartments” wherein walls, floors, ceilings, doors etc. (building elements) are designed and rated to have a fire resistance level or FRL.
• The FRL varies according to the type of building. For example, apartments may have a FRL of 90 minutes whereas old age homes may have a FRL of 240 minutes.
• Services conduits including conduits for water, electricity, sewage, air-conditioning and ventilation have to penetrate these fire compartments and the holes required for their passage have to be protected.
• Certain conduits such as plastic conduits melt very quickly and it is therefore essential to have an efficient means to seal these penetrations.
• Such is achieved by the use of “fire collars” at these conduit passages capable of maintaining the FRL of the building element. Specifically, a fire collar is a device that reacts to heat to seal the conduit passage and eliminate or reduce the heat transfer to the adjacent fire compartment space.
• The present invention seeks to provide a fire collar, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.
• It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
• According to one aspect, there is provided a fire collar comprising: a casing defining a service conduit passage therethrough, the casing having an activation side and an installation side, wherein the casing defines an activation side located activation chamber; an opposing pair of shutters located within the activation chamber defining operative leading edges such that, in use: the shutters are configurable in a non-activated configuration wherein the leading edges are spaced apart so as to make allowance for the service conduit therebetween; and when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side, the shutters transition to an activated configuration wherein the respective leading edges of the shutters close in to close the passage, wherein: the activation chamber defines an open ended entrance allowing allow for spacing around the periphery of the service conduit located within the activation chamber such that, when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side, a substantial portion of the periphery of the service conduit located within the activation chamber is exposed to the heat.
• The space allowed for by the open-ended activation chamber allows the service conduit to be exposed to heat so as to degrade more quickly during the event of a fire as opposed to were the periphery of the service conduit insulated in some manner. For example, were the periphery of the service conduit covered by surrounding building material or a fire collar, the surrounding building material or the fire collar may insulated the periphery of the service conduit from heat or wick heat therefrom potentially allowing fire to travel through the service conduit for some time prior to the activation of the fire collar.
• The shutters may be pivotally coupled to the casing at pivot points and wherein the shutters may be orientated with the pivot points towards the installation side and the leading edges towards the activation side.
• The closing of the shutters against the service conduit at the entrance of the activation chamber as opposed to towards the installation side prevents or ameliorates problems wherein surrounding concrete at the installation side wicks heat from the service conduit resulting in the slower degradation thereof and therefore delayed activation of the fire collar.
• The fire collar may further comprise intumescent material located within the activation chamber, such that, when the fire collar may be exposed to heat on the activation side, the intumescent material forms activated intumescent material and wherein the activated intumescent material collects on top of the shutters in the activated configuration.
• The intumescent material may comprise a pair of intumescent material pads fastened to respective inner surfaces of the shutters.
• The shutters define central portions and inwardly projecting wings engaging pivot points such that, in the activated configuration, the central portions cradle the activated intumescent material.
• The configuration of the shutters therefore cradles the activated intumescent material allowing the activated intumescent material to rest atop the shutters so as to prevent or substantially ameliorate the potential for the activated intumescent material to fall from the fire collar. Furthermore, the configuration of the shutters prevents or ameliorates the activated intumescent material from being drafted up the service conduit by convection currents.
• The central portions may have planar mid portions.
• The projecting wings may be substantially perpendicular to the mid portions.
• The central portions may have leading edge portions.
• The leading edge portions transition inwardly.
• The inward transition of the leading edge strengthens the leading edge thereby preventing or ameliorating the “banana effect” wherein non-strengthened leading edges splay apart when pressing against the service conduit.
• The central portions may have trailing edge portions.
• The leading trailing portions transition inwardly.
• The inward transition of the trailing edge portion allows the trailing edge portion to transition past the inner wall of the activation chamber when the shutters pivot to the activated configuration. The inward transition of the trailing edge portion may also strengthen the trailing edge portion.
• The inwardly projecting wings may engage the pivot points such that the pivot points are closer to the trailing portions as opposed to the leading edge portions.
• The activation chamber defines a height and the central portions may be configured, such that, in the non-activated configuration, the central portions occupy most of the height.
• Such a configuration allows for a compact construction wherein the shutters are able to utilise most of the interior space of the activation chamber.
• The activation chamber defines a rectangular cross-section and wherein the projecting wings lie against first opposing inner surfaces of the activation chamber and wherein, in the non-activated configuration, the mid portions lie against second opposing inner surfaces of the activation chamber.
• The rectangular cross-section of the casing assists in the installation thereof wherein, for example, formwork flooring may be cut utilising straightedge cutters such as angle grinders.
• The fire collar may further comprise shutter biasing means to bias the shutters to the activated configuration.
• The biasing means may comprise at least one tension spring tensioned between the shutters.
• The shutters define a central portions and inwardly projecting wings and wherein the at least one tension spring may comprise two tension springs engaging the shutters at respective junctures between the central portions and inwardly projecting wings.
• The at least tension spring may be located inward of the inwardly projecting wings.
• The fire collar may further comprise an interference between the shutters configured such that, in the activated configuration, the tension springs rests across the interference.
• The biasing of the shutters towards the activated configuration allows the shutters to actively crimp the heat softened service conduit.
• The fire collar may further comprise fuse means holding the shutters in the non-activated configuration such that, when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side, the fuse means give, allowing the shutters to transition to the activated configuration.
• The fuse means may comprise at least one fuse linkage bar holding the shutters apart under compression.
• The fuse linkage bar may be configured to give above an activation temperature.
• The material of the fuse linkage bar may be selected in accordance with the activation temperature.
• The activation temperature may be above 100° C.
• The material may comprise PVC.
• The activation temperature may be above 200° C.
• The material may comprise ABS.
• The fuse linkage bar may comprise a line of weakness configured in accordance with the activation temperature.
• The fuse linkage bar may be replaceable.
• The fire collar may further comprise a further fuse linkage bar having a differing activation temperature.
• The fuse means allows the fire collar to be activated at different temperatures depending on differing regulatory requirements and operational environments such as service conduit material type.
• The fire collar may further comprise at least one tension spring tensioned between the shutters and wherein the fuse linkage bar may be in line with the at least one tension spring.
• The tension spring being in line with the fuse linkage bar allows the shutters, tension springs and fuse linkage bar is to be removed as a mechanically stable integral unit so as to facilitate the manufacture, installation and regular servicing thereof without the need to remove the entire casing from the concrete.
• The pivot points may be at least partially defined by fasteners extending through the casing and wherein the fire collar may further comprise covers covering exterior portions of the fasteners.
• The shutters may be pivotally coupled to the casing at pivot points and the shutters may be orientated with the pivot points towards the installation side and the leading edges towards the activation side such that the shutters may tend to the activated configuration under the effects of gravity
• Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
• FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of a fire collar in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure;
• FIG. 2 shows an external upper perspective view of the fire collar;
• FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional elevation view of the fire collar configured in a nonactivated configuration;
• FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional elevation view of the fire collar configured in an activated configuration;
• FIG. 5 shows shutter plates in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
• FIG. 6 shows shutter plates in accordance with a further embodiment of the present disclosure and further the inter-engagement of tensioning springs tensioned between the shutters and fuse linkage bars holding the shutter plates apart;
• FIG. 7 shows an upper perspective view of the fire collar with the installation conduit having been removed; and
• FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional elevation view of the fire collar in accordance with a further embodiment wherein the fire collar comprises an interference between the shutter plates such that, in the activated configuration shown, the tensioning spring lies across the interference.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
• For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles in accordance with the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein, which would normally occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure.
• Before the structures, systems and associated methods relating to the fire collar are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular configurations, process steps, and materials disclosed herein as such may vary somewhat. It is also to be understood that the terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting since the scope of the disclosure will be limited only by the claims and equivalents thereof.
• In describing and claiming the subject matter of the disclosure, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set out below.
• It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
• As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “characterised by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.
• It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.
• The accompanying illustrations show a fire collar1. As will become apparent from the ensuing description, the fire collar1 operates by way of shutter action wherein, briefly, referring toFIG. 3, there is shown a cross-sectional view of the fire collar1 in a non-activated configuration whereasFIG. 4 shows the fire collar1 in an activated configuration.
• Now, referring initially toFIGS. 3 and 4, the fire collar1 comprises acasing2. In the preferred embodiment shown, thecasing2 is configured for recessed installation wherein, for example, for concrete slab flooring, the fire collar1 may be located prior to concrete pouring so as to allow the concrete to set around the fire collar1. In this regard, in embodiments, the fire collar1 may comprise an optional “hightop”installation conduit3 having the cylindrical or frustoconical configuration as shown and extending upward from thecasing2. As such, once the concrete has been poured to a predetermined level, theinstallation conduit3 may be cut at the exact height of the surface of the concrete.
• As can be seen from the illustrations, the interior of theinstallation conduit3 may be strengthened by way of ribbing4. The ribbing may also allow for vertical and parallel keying for engaging an optional cap (not shown) at a variable height. In the embodiment shown, theinstallation conduit3 is closed ended. Yet further, whereas theinstallation conduit3 is shown as being separable from the casing in the accompanying illustrations, in embodiments, theinstallation conduit3 and thecasing2 bay be integrally formed.
• Turning now toFIG. 2, there is shown theinstallation conduit3 being removable from thecasing2 by way ofinstallation conduit fasteners24. As such, theinstallation conduit3 may be selectively fastened to thecasing2 if required.
• FIG. 7 shows the fire collar1 with theinstallation conduit3 having been removed.
• However, it should be noted that, in other embodiments, thecasing2 may, for example, be configured for non-recessed configuration for, for example, retrofit to already installed service conduiting.
• Now, primarily for illustrative convenience, there is shown inFIG. 3 and orientational axis5 defining the proposed orientation of the fire collar1 in defining an installation side and an activation side. In this regard, where these sides are referenced subsequently in the description herein, the orientational axis5 may be referenced.
• In this regard, generally, the installation side may be construed as the side of the fire collar1 which is installed towards the building member or material such as the flooring, wall, beam or the like in which the fire collar1 is recessed or to which it is fastened. Opposite the installation side is the activation side defining the side of the fire collar1 from which side the fire collar1 is configured for protecting against heat in the event of a fire or the like.
• In most installations, the fire collar1 would be installed in the vertical orientation substantially shown inFIG. 3 wherein the fire collar1 is recessed into the underside of a floor slab such that the activation side is open from underneath the floor slab and whereas theinstallation conduit3 protrudes from the top of the floor slab. However, as alluded to above, the fire collar1 may be installed in other configurations such as by being orientated 90° with respect to the orientation shown inFIG. 1 wherein the fire collar1 may be utilised for walls, beams and the like for horizontally penetrating service conduits. However, for brevity, the vertical orientation suited for vertically transitioning service conduits will be described herein.
• Now, having established that thecasing2 defines an activation side and an installation side, as can be seen from at leastFIG. 3, thecasing2 may define a conduit engagement6 located towards the installation side of thecasing2. As can be seen, the conduit engagement6 is generally circular so as to be suited for engaging a cylindrical service conduit passing therethrough. In this regard, differing fire collars1 may be manufactured comprising conduit engagement having differing diameters suited for common conduit diameters. Ideally, the conduit engagement6 is sized so as to smugly fit against the service conduit.
• Now, the casing further defines an activation chamber7. It should be noted that the nomenclature “activation chamber” as used herein primarily for illustrative convenience. As can be seen, the activation chamber7 is located towards the activation side as opposed to the conduit engagement6 which is located towards the installation side.
• In this manner, the conduit engagement and the activation chamber7 cooperate to define a service conduit passage therethrough for accommodating a service conduit (not shown) in use.
• In embodiments, thecasing2 may be manufactured from plastic wherein, when recessed within concrete in the manner described above, the concrete assists as a heatsink so as to wick heat from thecasing2.
• Now, as can be seen fromFIG. 3, and as alluded to above, the fire collar1 comprises an opposing pair ofshutters8 located within the activation chamber7. Theshutters8 are pivotably coupled to thecasing2 at pivot points9 so as to be able to pivot within the activation chamber7 in the manner described herein.
• In a preferred embodiment, theshutters8 are manufactured from a fire resistant material, such as metal. In embodiment, theshutters8 may be manufactured from stainless steel.
• In this regard, theshutters8 define substantially linearoperative leading edges10 which close against the service conduit when the fire shutter1 activates in the manner described in further detail below.
• As can be seen fromFIG. 3, theshutters8 are orientated such that the pivot points9 are located towards the installation side whereas theoperative leading edges10 are located towards the activation side.
• As such, in use, the opposing pair ofshutters8 are configurable in a non-activated configuration as substantially shown inFIG. 3 wherein the respective leadingedges10 are spaced apart so as to make allowance for the service conduit therebetween.
• Furthermore, and turning toFIG. 4 now, when the fire collar1 is exposed to heat on the activation side, the respective leadingedges10 of theshutters8 close in so as to thereby close the passage as the service conduit softens and burns away. In embodiment as will be described in further detail below wherein theshutters8 are biased together, the leadingedges10 may assist in crimping the heat softened service conduit closed.
• In embodiments, and whereas the biasing of theshutters8 together using a tensioning spring will be described in further detail below with reference to a preferred embodiment, the configuration of the shutter pivot points9 may additionally or alternatively allow theshutters8 to fall to the activated configuration under the effects of gravity.
• In a particular embodiment, eachshutter8 may be balanced such that eachshutter8 rests hanging in the orientation of the activated configuration substantially shown inFIG. 4, that is, the centre of gravity of eachshutter8 is horizontally aligned with thepivot point8 when in the activated configuration such that each shutter rests in the hanging orientation shown inFIG. 4.
• As can be seen from the configuration ofFIG. 3, the activation chamber7 defines an open ended entrance providing spacing around the periphery of the service conduit located within the activation chamber7 such that, when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side, a substantial portion of the periphery of the service conduit located within the activation chamber is exposed to the heat. As such, during the event of a fire, the surrounding periphery of the service conduit would be exposed to heat so as to adequately degrade more quickly and allow the fire collar1 to activate within the required time as opposed to were the periphery of the service conduit insulated by the fire collar or the surrounding concrete itself and being heated only by way of fire within the interior of the service conduit.
• Furthermore, the orientation of theshutters8 with the pivot points9 towards the installation side and the leading edges towards the activation side7 allow theleading edges10 to meet the service conduit away from the surrounding concrete at the installation side, thereby preventing or ameliorating problems associated with thermal wicking which could delay the activation of the fire collar.
• Now, in a preferred embodiment, the fire collar1 may utilise intumescent material. Specifically, referring toFIG. 6, the fire collar1 may compriseintumescent material pads22 located on the inner faces of theshutters8. For securement of theintumescent material pads22,staples23 may be provided.
• When the fire collar1 is exposed to heat on the activation side, the intumescent material pads20 to activate to form activated intumescent material.
• Now, referring toFIG. 4 showing the fire collar1 in the activated configuration, as can be appreciated, in this configuration, the activated intumescent material lies atop theshutters8.
• As such, theshutters8 support the activated intumescent material so as to prevent or substantially ameliorate the activated intumescent material from falling from the activation chamber7. Furthermore, theshutters8 assist in shielding the activated intumescent material from convection air currents so as to prevent or ameliorate the activated intumescent material from being drafted up the service conduit.
• Furthermore, and referring specifically to the configuration of theshutters8 substantially shown inFIG. 6, as can be seen, theshutters8 definecentral portions12 and inwardly projectingwings13 engaging the pivot points9. By “inwardly”, reference is made toFIG. 3 wherein, as can be seen, in the nonactivated configuration, thewings13 project inwardly towards the interior of the activation chamber7.
• Now, with the activated intumescent material in mind, the particular configuration of theshutters8 having thecentral portions12 and the inwardly projectingwings13 allow thecentral portions12 to cradle the activated intumescent material.
• Specifically, referring toFIG. 4, as can be seen, in the activated configuration, the central portions cradle the activated intumescent material.
• In the embodiments shown, theintumescent material pads22 fasten to the inner surfaces of the shutters. However, in other embodiments, intumescent material may be fastened to the roof of the activation chamber7. In this configuration, the activated intumescent material would yet lie atop theshutters8.
• Referring specifically again toFIG. 6, as can be seen, thecentral portions12 may have planarmid portions12C. As can be seen, the projectingwings13 may be substantially perpendicular to themid portions12C.
• Furthermore, thecentral portions12 may have a leading-edge portion12L. As can be seen, the leading-edge portion12L transitions inwardly including for reason so as to strengthen the leading-edge12L. Specifically, the inward transition of the leading-edge12L strengthens the leading-edge so as to avoid the “banana effect” from straight edges meeting the service conduit at an oblique angle and splay apart.
• Furthermore, in embodiments, the inward transition of the leading-edge12L allows the respective leadingedges10 to meet face on and parallel as a substantially shown inFIG. 4, allowing for effective crimping of the service conduit and avoiding meeting the service conduit at an angle which may cause theleading edges10 display apart. In alternative embodiments, the leadingedges12L need not necessarily meet in parallel, wherein the transition is greater allowing theleading edges12L to meet rather at an upward angle, the latter being found by trial end experimentation by the inventor as further assisting the structural rigidity of theleading edges12L.
• Furthermore, thecentral portions12 may define trailing portions12R. Similarly, the trailing portions12R may also transition inwardly. Specifically, referring toFIG. 3, as can be seen the inward transition of the trailing portions12R allows the trailing portions12R to transition past the adjacent inner walls of the activation chamber7 as theshutters8 pivot about the pivot points9.
• Now, referring again toFIG. 3, as can be seen, the projectingwings13 may be configured such that the pivot points9 are located closer to the trailing portions12R as opposed to the leading-edge portions12L.
• Furthermore, the activation chamber defines a height, and, in embodiments, thecentral portions12 are configured such that, in the nonactivated configuration shown inFIG. 3, thecentral portions12 occupy most of the height of the activation chamber.
• As such, as can be appreciated, such configuration allows for a compact configuration in allowing theshutters8 to effectively utilise the interior spacing of the activation chamber7.
• Specifically, in a preferred embodiment, the activation chamber7 defines a rectangular cross-section (such as a square, including with corners cut out as substantially shown inFIG. 7) wherein, the projectingwings13 lie against first opposing inner surfaces of the activation chamber and furthermore, in the nonactivated configuration shown inFIG. 3, themid portions12C lie against second opposing inner surfaces of the activation chamber.
• The rectangular cross-section of thecasing2 aids in the installation of the fire collar1 wherein certain floor slab formwork installations comprise a metal base which must be physically cut from beneath to allow access to the fire collar. The square cross-section of thecasing2 allows the appropriate aperture to be cut through utilising straightedge cutters, such as angle grinders without having to utilise expensive plasma cutters or the like to cut curves.
• Now, in a preferred embodiment, the fire collar1 comprises shutter biasing means to bias theshutters8 to the activated configuration.
• Specifically, referring toFIG. 6, the biasing means may comprise at least onetension spring14 tension between theshutters8.
• In a particular embodiment shown, the fire collar1 comprises two tension springs14.
• Furthermore, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 6, the tension springs14 connects to theshutters8 at a juncture between thecentral portions12 and thewings13.
• In this particular configuration, the tension springs14 may be shielded from heat when theshutters8 assume the activated configuration so as to reduce the likelihood of thesprings14 failing in high temperatures.
• Furthermore, the fire collar1 may compriseinterferences39 projecting inwardly between theshutters8. As can be seen from the embodiment shown inFIG. 8 showing theshutters8 in the activated configuration, the tension springs14 lie atop theinterference39 so as to hold the tension springs14 away from the closing leading-edges10. At leastFIG. 6 shows theshutters8 havingcutouts36 for making allowance for theinterferences39. Furthermore,FIG. 3 shows thecasing2 havingapertures38 in which theinterferences39 may be secured.
• In embodiment, the tensioning springs14 may be manufactured from stainless steel.
• In another embodiment, other types of springs may be utilised such as torsion springs. Specifically, such a torsion spring may define dual torsion coils from which arms extend, terminating in inwardly projecting projections configured for engaging theshutter plates8.
• Now, in a preferred embodiment, the fire collar1 further comprises fuse means holding theshutters8 in the nonactivated configuration such that, when the fire collar1 is exposed to heat on the activation site, the fuse means give, allowing theshutters8 to transition to the activated configuration.
• Now, referring toFIG. 6, in the embodiment shown, the fuse means comprises at least onefuse linkage bar21 holding theshutters8 apart under compression.
• In embodiment shown inFIG. 6, the fire collar1 comprises a pair of fuse linkage bars21 located at either ends of the shutters. Specifically, as can be seen, eachfuse linkage bar21 may compriseend engagements35 which may be configured for fastening to corresponding engagements34 (shown inFIG. 5) of the inner edge of thewings13.
• As such, when exposed to heat within the activation chamber7, the fuse linkage bars21 give such as is substantially shown inFIG. 4 allowing theshutters8 to assume the activated configuration.
• In embodiment, thefuse linkage bar21 may be selected in accordance with an activation temperature.
• For example, for PVC service conduit application, thefuse linkage bar21 may be configured to give at above approximately 100° C. However, for more modern polypropylene piping, thefuse linkage bar21 may be configured to give at above approximately 200° C.
• In embodiments, the particular material may be chosen so as to confer the desired activation temperature on thefuse linkage bar21. For example, in one embodiment, the fuse linkage by21 may be manufactured from the same or similar material as that of the service conduit such that, wherein, for PVC service conduits, the fuse linkage bars21 may similarly be manufactured from PVC so as to give at a same or similar temperature.
• In alternative embodiments, thefuse linkage bar21 may comprise at least one line ofweakness37 wherein the line ofweakness37 is configured to allow thefuse linkage bar21 to give at the activation temperature. The fuse linkage bars21 may also have standoffs for spacing an air gap between the fuse linkage bars21 and thecasing2 so as to reduce thermal wicking from the fuse linkage bars21 to thecasing2 and surrounding concrete which could otherwise affect the activation of the fuse linkage bars21.
• In embodiments, differing types of fuse linkage bars21 may be provided for the fire collar1 so as to be suited for differing applications wherein, during installation, the installer may select the appropriate fire collar1 depending on the material of the service conduit or the like.
• Now, in a further preferred embodiment, as can be seen at least fromFIG. 6, thefuse linkage bar21 is in line with the associatedtensioning spring14. Such configuration provides for a mechanically stable shutter configuration assisting in the manufacture, installation and servicing of theshutters8.
• Specifically, AS 1851 requires regular inspection and servicing of passive fire systems.
• As such, the in-line configuration of the fuse bars21 and the tensioning springs14 provides a mechanically stable standalone shutter configuration which can be removed while thecasing2 remains in place.
• Specifically, for their replacement, the screws located at the pivot points9 may be unscrewed and theshutters8 removed.
• Turning now toFIG. 2, theinstallation conduit3 may comprise aflange26 and supportingbuttresses25. As alluded to above, when poured in concrete, thebuttresses25 may key into the set concrete.
• Furthermore, as can be seen also, thecasing2 may itself comprise aflange27 and supporting buttresses wherein the supporting buttresses28 may further comprise a minor buttresses29. Thebuttresses28 may further comprisecutouts30 so as to allow the concrete to set therein for further keying.
• Furthermore, theflange27 may comprisefastener apertures31 for fastening thecasing2 to formwork or the like during installation.
• As can also be seen fromFIG. 2, the pivot points9 may be formed byfasteners32 projecting from the interior of thecasing2 to the exterior of thecasing2. In this regard, each faster32 may comprise asleeve33 so as to prevent thefastener32 from being keyed into the concrete so as to allow for the replacement of theshutters8 in the manner described above.
• Turning now toFIG. 5, there is shown a variation of the configuration of theshutters8 wherein, as can be seen, the juncture between thewings13 and thecentral plate portions12 are cornered.
INTERPRETATIONEmbodiments
• Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.
• Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.
• Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.
Different Instances of Objects
• As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.
Specific Details
• In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.
Terminology
• In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as “forward”, “rearward”, “radially”, “peripherally”, “upwardly”, “downwardly”, and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.
Comprising and Including
• In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.
• Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.
Scope of Invention
• Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.
• Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
• It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the building industries.

Claims (35)

1. A fire collar comprising:

a casing defining a service conduit passage therethrough, the casing having an activation side and an installation side, wherein the casing defines an activation side located activation chamber;

an opposing pair of shutters located within the activation chamber defining operative leading edges such that, in use:

the shutters are configurable in a non-activated configuration wherein the leading edges are spaced apart so as to make allowance for the service conduit therebetween; and

when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side in use, the shutters transition to an activated configuration wherein the respective leading edges of the shutters close in to close the passage, wherein:

the activation chamber defines an open ended entrance providing spacing around the periphery of the service conduit located within the activation chamber in use such that, when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side in use, a substantial portion of the periphery of the service conduit located within the activation chamber is exposed to the heat.

2. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the shutters are pivotally coupled to the casing at pivot points and wherein the shutters are orientated with the pivot points towards the installation side and the leading edges towards the activation side.

3. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising intumescent material located within the activation chamber, such that, when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side, the intumescent material forms activated intumescent material and wherein the activated intumescent material collects on top of the shutters in the activated configuration.

4. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 3, wherein the intumescent material comprises a pair of intumescent material pads fastened to respective inner surfaces of the shutters.

5. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 3, wherein the shutters define central portions and inwardly projecting wings engaging pivot points such that, in the activated configuration, the central portions cradle the activated intumescent material.

6. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 5, wherein the central portions have planar mid portions.

7. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 6, wherein the projecting wings are substantially perpendicular to the mid portions.

8. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 6, wherein the central portions have leading edge portions.

9. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 8, wherein the leading edge portions transition inwardly.

10. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 6, wherein the central portions have trailing edge portions.

11. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 10, wherein the leading trailing portions transition inwardly.

12. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 5, wherein the inwardly projecting wings engage the pivot points such that the pivot points are closer to the trailing portions as opposed to the leading edge portions.

13. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 5, wherein the activation chamber defines a height and wherein the central portions are configured, such that, in the non-activated configuration, the central portions occupy most of the height.

14. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the activation chamber defines a rectangular cross-section and wherein the projecting wings lie against first opposing inner surfaces of the activation chamber and wherein, in the non-activated configuration, the mid portions lie against second opposing inner surfaces of the activation chamber.

15. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising shutter biasing means to bias the shutters to the activated configuration.

16. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 15, wherein the biasing means comprises at least one tension spring tensioned between the shutters.

17. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 16, wherein the shutters define a central portions and inwardly projecting wings and wherein the at least one tension spring comprises two tension springs engaging the shutters at respective junctures between the central portions and inwardly projecting wings.

18. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 16, wherein the at least tension spring are located inward of the inwardly projecting wings.

19. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 17, further comprising an interference between the shutters configured such that, in the activated configuration, the tension springs rests across the interference.

20. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising fuse means holding the shutters in the non-activated configuration such that, when the fire collar is exposed to heat on the activation side, the fuse means give, allowing the shutters to transition to the activated configuration.

21. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 20, wherein the fuse means comprises at least one fuse linkage bar holding the shutters apart under compression.

22. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 21, wherein the fuse linkage bar is configured to give above an activation temperature.

23. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 22, wherein the material of the fuse linkage bar is selected in accordance with the activation temperature.

24. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 23, wherein the activation temperature is above 100° C.

25. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 24, wherein the material comprises PVC.

26. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 23, wherein the activation temperature is above 200° C.

27. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 26, wherein the material comprises ABS.

28. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 22, wherein the fuse linkage bar comprises a line of weakness configured in accordance with the activation temperature.

29. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 28, wherein the fuse linkage bar comprises standoffs for spacing an air gap between the fuse linkage bar and adjacent casing of the fire collar.

30. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 22, wherein the fuse linkage bar is replaceable.

31. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 30, wherein the fire collar further comprises a further fuse linkage bar having a differing activation temperature.

32. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 21, further comprising at least one tension spring tensioned between the shutters and wherein the fuse linkage bar is in line with the at least one tension spring.

33. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 2, wherein the pivot points are at least partially defined by fasteners extending through the casing and wherein the fire collar further comprises covers covering exterior portions of the fasteners.

34. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the shutters are pivotally coupled to the casing at pivot points and wherein the shutters are orientated with the pivot points towards the installation side and the leading edges towards the activation side such that the shutters tend to the activated configuration under the effects of gravity.

34. A fire collar as claimed inclaim 34, wherein the centre of gravity of each shutter is horizontally aligned with the pivot point when in the activated configuration.

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